A lawyer will typically specialize in a particular type of legal work, and fees will depend on the type and complexity of the legal services needed, local rates, the size of the law firm, and the experience and reputation of the individual lawyer. Legal fees also vary significantly in different cities, counties and states.
Typical costs:
An attorney may charge a flat fee for a specific service or an hourly rate of $90-$500 or more. A retainer is an up-front fee paid to hire an attorney, usually a percentage of the total fee or the equivalent of several hours work. A lawyer working on an hourly basis deducts that hourly rate from the retainer as the work is done; when the retainer is gone, the client is billed for additional payment. In some liability lawsuits, a lawyer may take the case on a contingency basis, meaning the lawyer earns a percentage of any money received once the case is settled or the trial is complete.
Flat fees for handling a divorce vary from $200 for filing a motion to $10,000-$25,000 for handling all aspects of the process. In complicated, highly emotional cases with legal fees charged on an hourly basis, it can cost $20,000-$50,000 or more to represent one spouse. Also see: Child Custody Attorney or Child Support Attorney. Legal fees for a personal bankruptcy case can cost $1,000-$3,500 or more depending on whether it's a straight Chapter 7 bankruptcy or a Chapter 13 personal reorganization. Legal fees for a business bankruptcy can cost $1,000-$500,000 or more depending on the size of the company and whether it's a straightforward Chapter 7 business liquidation bankruptcy or a more complex Chapter 11 business reorganization.
Those with low incomes may qualify for state programs eliminating filing fees, or for Legal Aid or other low-cost assistance, such as lawyers who will take a case on a pro bono (free) basis. LawHelp.org[1] and the American Bar Association[2] link to legal resources by state.
Shopping for attorney fees:
Contact several lawyers and ask about their training and experience. The Massachusetts Bar Association provides tips for choosing a lawyer[3] .
Referrals are available through FindLaw.com[4] or by contacting the local bar association[5] .
The attorney should provide a written fee agreement; ask specific questions about exactly what is covered, and if there are any other fees and expected expenses that will add to the total cost.
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